Can I have an acai bowl while pregnant? [Explained]

This article will thoroughly discuss whether you must consume an acai bowl during pregnancy or not, with a list of fruits that you can safely eat.

Can I have an acai bowl while pregnant?

Yes. You can eat an acai bowl during your pregnancy. Acai berries are rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene.

Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that converts to vitamin A, which plays an integral role in tissue and cell development, including your baby’s eyes, skin, and bones. Therefore, breastfeeding and pregnant mothers are encouraged to raise their vitamin A intake by about forty percent.

On top of that, acai berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, E, and a few B’s, and have a good amount of protein and amino acids. That combo is perfect for helping strengthen your immune system and energy levels.

You can consume an acai bowl in moderation during your pregnancy. If you doubt whether to take an acai bowl during pregnancy, always consult your doctor before making any diet changes.

Is acai pasteurized?

Yes, acai can be pasteurized. Always choose pasteurized versions of the juice, especially when pregnant. Unpasteurized acai juice has been associated with Chagas disease, which could be transmitted to the baby in utero and causes problems like prematurity and low birth weight.

What are the fruits to avoid during pregnancy?

Most fruits have the nutrients and vitamins the body needs during pregnancy, especially when the fetus undergoes a growth spurt. However, some fruits may not do good to your body. These includes:

• Grapes
• Pineapple
• Papaya
• Dates
• Tamarind
• Tomatoes
• Frozen Berries
• Watermelons
• Banana

It’s always safer to check with your doctor, who can recommend the fruits you can consume during your pregnancy.

Can I drink strawberry acai while pregnant?

There’s very little known about whether or not you can drink strawberry acai during pregnancy. However, the research on acai berries is more likely to focus on their health benefits and their ability to lessen blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Unluckily, there has been no research on its safety during pregnancy. However, Acai bowls’ ingredients are considered safe and helpful for pregnant women. Thus, if you’re interested in drinking it, it may be wise to consult your doctor about their medical expertise and thoughts.

They might also tell you to control your intake or perhaps only have a strawberry acai drink as a treat here and there.

Five foods to eat during pregnancy

Here are five foods safe to eat during pregnancy – 

Consume fish liver oil during pregnancy.

Fish liver oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for developing your baby’s brain and nervous system. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help to reduce the risk of preterm labor and birth. You should consume around 200 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids per day during pregnancy. You can either take two capsules of fish liver oil or include oily fish in your meal, such as salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines.

Consume dairy products during pregnancy.

Consuming calcium-rich dairy products during pregnancy has various benefits for both the mother and child. These benefits include reducing the risk of hypertension, preeclampsia, and obesity. Pregnant women should aim to consume three dairy servings each day. Examples of one serving include 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of yogurt, or 1.5 ounces of cheese.

Consume legumes during pregnancy.

Pregnant women should add legumes to their diet for the many benefits they provide. Legumes are a good source of protein, iron, and fiber, and can help keep blood sugar levels in check. They are also high in folic acid, essential for developing your baby’s neural tube. Other varieties of legumes are also high in zinc and potassium, which help to support a healthy pregnancy. To ultimately benefit from legumes, it is better to consume around 1 cup per day or about 3/4 cup if you consume other protein-rich foods such as meat or poultry.

Eat salmon during pregnancy.

Salmon is a great option for pregnant women as it is rich in DHA, which is beneficial for the development of a baby’s brain and eyes. Additionally, salmon is a good source of protein and vitamin D. It is packed with other essential nutrients for a healthy pregnancy. When choosing salmon, it is best to opt for wild-caught salmon, as this variety has a lower risk of contamination. Pregnant women should aim to consume around 2-3 servings of fatty fish per week, which should include about 8 ounces of cooked salmon.

Consume leafy greens during pregnancy.

Vitamins A, C, and K are all important nutrients that can be found in leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard. They are also high in folic acid, which is a nutrient that helps to prevent birth defects of the brain and spine.

Vitamin A is necessary for developing your baby’s eyes and immune system, while vitamin C can help the body heal cuts and wounds and also aids in absorbing iron. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone development.

It is generally recommended to consume 2-3 cups of leafy greens per day during pregnancy. This could include 1 cup of cooked spinach, 1/2 cup of kale, or 1/2 cup of Swiss chard.

Conclusion 

Pregnant women should eat various fruits, but it’s also essential to be familiar with the risks of certain fruits and their health benefits.

To support a healthy pregnancy, increase your intake of veggies and fruits. Feel free to consult your nutritionist and gynecologist before making any changes to your diet, so you give birth to a healthy baby.